Fashion is ageless. If you have a good eye for style and love clothes, you will always look amazing no matter how old you are.
Some of the most famous women in the world who dress impeccably are older. Think of Celine Dion, Sarah Jessica Parker, Julianne Moore, Michelle Obama. They look absolutely sublime. And of course Anna Wintour, the editor of the most famous fashion magazine in the world, the American magazine VOGUE, is 74 years old.
However, there are some things many of us do with our clothes that can make us look older, so we called in an expert. Julie Player, fashion editor and wardrobe stylist with over 30 years’ experience in the fashion industry, reveals the fashion mistakes that are ageing us, without us even realising.
Julie, who also works as a designer for TV and high street brands, explains: “I firmly believe that women should wear what they want – if it makes you happy and makes you feel good, then it’s the perfect outfit for you. However, if you look at your wardrobe every day and it doesn’t inspire you, and your clothes make you feel dated and boring, you’re probably making some fashion mistakes that can easily be fixed.
“What you choose to wear can reflect your outlook on life, and who wants to look old, tired or boring?”
1. Using inappropriate colors
“Going out” was a huge trend in the 80s, and thanks to TikTok, it’s back in style. If you have a favorite color and love wearing it, go for it, but there’s no denying that certain shades can make you feel drained and washed out.
As we get older, it becomes more important to embrace bolder, brighter colours. Neutral shades like grey and beige are dull and lifeless – avoid wearing anything that’s the colour of an old flannel! Classic clothing in neutral colours is essential to creating a wearable capsule wardrobe, but add some personality with pops of vibrant colour.
If colour isn’t your thing and you prefer to dress in a more muted palette, add interest by mixing textures. For example, opt for a cream satin shirt with navy velvet trousers or choose a black dress with lace detailing, rather than a plain one.
2. Wearing the wrong size
Don’t hide under long, flowing layers that will overshadow your figure and make you look sloppy.
Look in the mirror and be honest with yourself: what are your best parts? Show off the parts of your body that you are proud of and that make you feel confident. Invest in tailoring: a well-fitting blazer over jeans will look more modern than a baggy cardigan.
3. Footwear: comfort over style
I’m too old to wear uncomfortable shoes and I refuse to suffer for the sake of fashion. But comfortable footwear doesn’t have to be sloppy.
Get on board with the sneaker trend and go for a fun colour. Avoid sandals with velcro fastening too tightly!
4. Accessories: Don’t play it safe
Use your accessories to add a touch of personality to your look. Choose a bag with an interesting shape or color and add jewelry that will spark conversation.
When it comes to accessories, don’t be afraid to experiment with the latest trends and try a style you might normally avoid – take a risk!
5. Are your underwear letting you down?
Wearing the right bra size will literally get you out of the funk.
Get a professional to try it on and make sure it feels supported, comfortable and secure. If it feels good under your clothes, you’ll look great in it.
6. Messy frames
There’s nothing that ages you faster than a boring, safe pair of reading glasses. Be adventurous with frames and try a shape or color that matches a good haircut to make you look years younger.
